Chairwoman
Kimberly
Palmieri-Mouded

Chairwoman Palmieri-Mouded was elected to the board in November of 2018 to serve her first three-year term as Commissioner. In 2021, Palmieri-Mouded was re-elected to her second term. She just completed 2023 as Vice-Chairwoman and is now serving as Chairwoman for the first time in 2024.

She announced a series of initiatives for 2024, titled “Growing Together in Union County,” with a few key focuses on enhancing connectivity, inclusivity, supporting seniors, mental health, women’s initiatives, and fostering family connections.

Chairwoman Palmieri-Mouded’s vision includes launching a new app and updating the county’s website for residents’ easy access and senior enrichment programs that focus on social activities, swim lessons, and a Seniors Against Scams program. Addressing mental health, the Chairwoman introduced the Train the Trainer Mental Health Program and she emphasized her support for women, relaunching the Union County Commission on the Status of Women. Her family connections involve a reading and tutoring program, expanded youth programs, a mobile sensory unit, and the purchase of aquatic wheelchairs. Lastly, a motivating literacy initiative, inspired by a young resident, Ben Steinberg, who was present at the reorganization meeting, that will introduce inclusive books in 116 Union County public elementary school libraries.

As a Commissioner in 2021, Palmieri-Mouded served as Chair of the Open Space Recreational & Historic Preservation Trust Board. During that time, the Trust Fund Board awarded $1.455 million in matching grants for the Kids Recreation, Greening Union County and Preserve Union County initiatives. She also served on the Fiscal Committee as well as the Public Works and Facilities Committee.

Palmieri-Mouded also served as the Commissioner Liaison to Advisory Boards, including the Union County Performing Arts Center Board of Trustees, the Youth Services Commission, the Homeless Trust Fund Advisory Board, the Advisory Board on the Disabled, the Commission on the Status of Women and the Union County College Board of School Estimates.

In 2022, she chaired Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee of the Commissioner Board, and served on the Fiscal and Parks & Administrative Code committees.

Vice Chair Palmieri-Mouded earned a B.A. in English and an M.P.S. in Criminal Justice Leadership from St. John’s University in Staten Island, New York. After completing her undergraduate degree, she worked for the University’s Division of Student Affairs as the Assistant to the Dean before becoming Associate Dean for Student Life. She also taught freshman level courses for several semesters.

In addition to teaching courses and managing a large financial budget, Palmieri-Mouded supervised many projects, events, activities, and programs. She oversaw all student organizations and planned and organized various experiences and off-campus community service projects for the school and the local community.

After the premature birth of twins, Palmieri-Mouded made the decision to leave St. John’s University and stay home to take care of her children. Currently, she serves as class parent at her children’s elementary school, along with other volunteer roles.

A lifelong resident of Union County, Palmieri-Mouded was born and raised in Elizabeth, NJ, and now lives in Westfield with her husband George and their five children: Matthew, Christopher, Nicholas, Ryan and Adeline.

Contact the Chairwoman

Office Phone Number: 908-527-4112

E-mail Address: Kimberly.Mouded@ucnj.org

Initiatives

Growing Together in Union County

App & Website

new County app and improved website

Senior Enrichment Programs

focus on social activities, swim lessons, and a Seniors Against Scams program.

Mental Health

Train the Trainer Mental Health Program

Woman

Union County Commission on the Status of Women Relaunch

Motivating Literacy

introduce inclusive books in 116 Union County public elementary school libraries

Aquatic Wheelchairs Purchase

Expanded Youth Programs

Reading and Tutoring Program

Press Release

Union County Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded has been selected as Chairwoman of the Union County Board of County Commissioners and announced a series of initiatives for 2024, titled “Growing Together in Union County,” with a few key focuses on enhancing connectivity, inclusivity, supporting seniors, mental health, women’s initiatives, and fostering family connections.

“Union County has always been made up of diverse lives, stories, and aspirations; and the strength of our community comes from the connections between its county government and its residents,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “As Chairwoman, while we start the journey of “Growing Together in Union County,” I will be dedicated to breaking down barriers, opening doors, and building a stronger community that promises a brighter future for all residents. Let us continue to work together for an even better Union County, where the bonds of community grow stronger and the seeds of progress are sown for generations to come.”

A lifelong resident of Union County, Palmieri-Mouded was born and raised in Elizabeth, NJ, and now lives in Westfield with her husband George and their five children: Matthew, Christopher, Nicholas, Ryan and Adeline. The Chairwoman announced her initiatives at the 167th annual reorganization meeting held in the Union County Courthouse in Elizabeth on Thursday.

Chairwoman Palmieri-Mouded’s vision includes launching a new app and updating the county’s website for residents’ easy access and senior enrichment programs that focus on social activities, swim lessons, and a Seniors Against Scams program.

Addressing mental health, the Chairwoman introduced the Train the Trainer Mental Health Program and she emphasized her support for women, relaunching the Union County Commission on the Status of Women.

Her family connections involve a reading and tutoring program, expanded youth programs, a mobile sensory unit, and the purchase of aquatic wheelchairs. Lastly, a motivating literacy initiative, inspired by a young resident, Ben Steinberg, who was present at the reorganization meeting, that will introduce inclusive books in 116 Union County public elementary school libraries.

Union County Sheriff Peter Corvelli was sworn in for his second term, alongside Union County Commissioners Lourdes Leon, Joseph Bodek, and newly elected Michèle Delisfort, who were sworn in for their terms. Commissioner Bodek, appointed in December 2022, transitions into his first elected term, while Commissioner Leon assumes the role of Commissioner Vice-Chairwoman. The Commissioners also voted on various County advisory board positions and approved the Board’s 2024 schedule and procedural rules

Speech

  • Good evening elected officials, family, friends, and citizens of Union County.
  • Thank you for joining me at this year’s Re-Organization Meeting.
  • It is a great honor to stand before you as the Chairwoman for 2024.
  • You may not recognize me without a child on my hip, or my eyes staring down one of them about to do something they know they shouldn’t! And although, I sometimes cringe to myself that it may not look very professional, I am often reminded that I get this great opportunity to represent the many women in our county that are balancing a career while raising their children.
  • My children, Matthew, Christopher, Nicholas, Ryan and Adeline and my husband George are my greatest gifts and support system.
  • I am so grateful for my extended family, those here tonight (including my mother in law) and those at home for your endless love and support. My dad, a former freeholder who swore me in and my mom, a life long nurse who worked tirelessly during our County Covid operations. Each of you have deep roots within Union County that has helped to shape me.
  • I would also like to express special appreciation to Senate President Nicholas Scutari for joining us today and consistently advocating for Union County.
  • Throughout the year, his efforts have secured millions of dollars for various initiatives, ranging from, but not limited to: mental health and the revitalization of our Clark Reservoir and Skating Rink.
  • These contributions will undoubtedly have a significant and positive impact on enhancing the quality of life for our residents.
  • Thank you to my fantastic Commissioner Colleagues for your confidence in me, I am certain we are going to have a great year.
  • And a big thank you to our County Manager, Ed Oatman, for all of his hard work and dedication and for working alongside Deputy County Manager Amy Wagner, our County Directors, Constitutional Officers and employees – who make up our Union County family.
  • Today, I am excited to unveil a set of initiatives under the theme “Growing Together in Union County,” to be implemented in this coming year.
  • Union County has always been made up of diverse lives, stories, and aspirations.
  • And the strength of our community comes from the connections between its county government and its residents.
  • As we are all well aware, technology is all around us. The initial phase of my vision centers on enhancing our technological connectivity through the introduction of a new app and a revitalized website
  • By incorporating innovative tools, residents will enjoy convenient access to the information they seek most – RIGHT at their fingertips.
  • From County events and park locations, to trail maps, bike paths, park area reservations, sports field locations, fillable forms, interactive maps, and program details—there will be something for everyone in our comprehensive platform.
  • This initiative will help bridge gaps, enhance communication, and create a more connected community.
  • We envision a Union County where residents, young and old, are equipped with the knowledge and resources to actively engage within our dynamic county.
  • Our seniors are the foundation of our community and in my next set of initiative, I am excited to introduce senior enrichment programs, designed to cater to the well-being and enjoyment of our senior community members.
  • Our first program is the Social Senior Circle Program, which will focus on providing seniors with opportunities to gather and socialize through a variety of monthly activities.
  • From movies, painting, crafts, computer lessons, cooking, restaurant dining, and more, our seniors can engage in events that not only build friendships but also encourage staying active and connected.
  • Furthermore, we are introducing Senior Swim Lessons. The demand for adult swim lessons became evident following the success of the free children’s swim lessons implemented last year.
  • We will once again partner with our stakeholders and
  • These classes will be designed to address seniors’ unique needs, focusing on water safety, basic swimming techniques, and gentle exercises to enhance strength and flexibility.
  • In our ongoing commitment to senior well-being, we will present the Seniors Against Scams Program.
  • This educational series covers financial safety, social media scams, phone scams, and more, empowering older adults with the knowledge and strategies to protect themselves.
  • While we recognize the importance of developing social connections and engagement through our diverse senior programs, I want to shift our focus to another crucial aspect of well-being — mental health initiatives.
  • Furthering our commitment to comprehensive care, we understand that mental health is a vital component of overall wellness, and each year we try to create even more programs that reflect this dedication to the health of our community.
  • This year, we are introducing the Train the Trainer Mental Health Program.
  • Similar to First Aid and CPR, Mental Health First Aid equips individuals to assist those facing mental health or substance use crises, providing support in both crisis and non-crisis situations.
  • This initiative strives to encourage a community to be well-informed and ready to address mental health challenges, enabling individuals to support family, friends, or neighbors in times of need.
  • Building on the foundation of empowering our residents through lifelong learning, we turn our focus to diversity, support, and equity and it is essential to highlight the significant strides we are making to champion the role of women in our community.
  • Notably, you can see that our commitment to gender diversity is exemplified by the current presence of a female majority Commissioner Board, which furthers the promotion of inclusivity and excellence.
  • As a proud, devoted working mother, and a strong advocate for women, one initiative I am happy to announce is the re-launch of the Union County Commission on the Status of Women.
  • This revitalized initiative highlights our commitment to supporting the rights and opportunities of all women in our county, establishing a robust platform for empowerment, advocacy, and collective progress.
  • The commission’s emphasis will be on recognizing women of excellence, grant funding, programs and events as well as formulating policy recommendations that echoes our commitment to providing women with the necessary resources and opportunities for their thriving success.
  • Keeping in line with our commitment to “growing together,” the final focus of my vision this year revolves around something close to my heart—family connections.
  • Given my large family with children spanning from various ages, each with unique needs ranging from sports and activities to academics and personal development, I know the importance of adopting and maintaining programs that create active engagement, continuous learning, and inclusivity countywide.
  • This year, we are excited to partner with our local, esteemed educational institutions for a dynamic reading and tutoring program.
  • This program will help to empower children to enhance their reading skills and receive support in subjects where needed, promoting confidence and readiness for the upcoming school year.
  • We are also pleased to announce an expansion of youth programs designed to more actively involve younger students.
  • This initiative will provide opportunities for young people to gather and share their interests, concerns, and perspectives within Union County’s youth population.
  • Additionally, these programs will serve as a platform for our connectivity initiative, offering a chance for civic engagement.
  • Participants will have the opportunity to work hand-in-hand with our County Commissioners and contribute valuable insights, further strengthening our community connections.
  • Building on our commitment to inclusivity, we recognize the importance of ensuring that every member of the family, regardless of ability, can fully enjoy our public spaces.
  • This year, we want to introduce a mobile sensory unit at County events, although specifically designed for individuals sensitive to loud noises, such as those with autism, this inclusive service welcomes individuals of all abilities. 
  • The soundproof van, equipped with sensory games, aims to regulate reactions to external stimuli, providing a space for relaxation and ensuring families can participate without disruptions.
  • We will also like to introduce aquatic wheelchairs, promoting equal recreational opportunities at both our pool and spray park.
  • Also known as pool access wheelchairs, they facilitate safe and comfortable movement in and around water, ensuring an inclusive environment for all residents to enjoy water-based activities without limitations.
  • For my last component of family connections – it is an initiative that I was personally inspired by over the course of the summer during one of our Commissioner’s meetings.
  • A young resident named Ben Steinberg, joined by his parents and his twin brother Nathan, attended one of meetings and his resilience, advocacy, and compassion not only left a lasting impact on his own town but also left a heavy mark on me.
  • Ben, who navigates life with cerebral palsy, transformed his disability into a catalyst for positive change.
  • Observing a lack of books featuring individuals with physical disabilities in his school’s library, he embarked on a mission to establish a “disability section.”
  • With determination and support, Ben successfully helped his school raise $5000 for this cause, and the library now proudly hosts this section.
  • It was Ben’s story that served as the inspiration for my inclusive literacy initiative, which promotes understanding and empathy among youth.
  • In collaboration with the Superintendent of Schools, we will be introducing inclusive books in libraries in all 116 Union County public elementary schools.
  • This collection will encompass a diverse range of books addressing disabilities and promoting inclusion and diversity, ensuring that every student of all abilities and backgrounds have access to materials that broaden their understanding of various topics.
  • These examples only touch the surface of our ambitious 2024 – so stay tuned throughout the year as we unveil more plans.
  • Our commitment to breaking barriers, opening doors, and building the county our residents deserve remains firm.
  • So as we embark on this journey of “Growing Together in Union County,” let us continue to work together for a better Union County, where the bonds of community grow stronger and the seeds of progress are sown for generations to come.
  • I want to thank the Board of County Commissioners, County Manager and constitutional officers for their commitment in delivering real results for Union County.